German Market open for Sri Lankan tourism

The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) organised their first interactive evening session for its members on 07 February 2013, at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo. The Guest Speaker of the evening was Ambassador of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Dr. Juergen Morhard.

The Ambassador highlighted that Sri Lanka is an important tourist destination for Germany, as German tourists have always enjoyed travelling to Sri Lanka and indeed remain loyal to this country as they share a special love for sun, culture and adventure.

During the interactive speech made by the Ambassador, he focused on the insights of a typical German traveller and stated that, “An average of 30 million people travel out of Germany from which 5% travel to Asia.

“It is also stated that 70,000 Germans have so far visited the beautiful island. This means one in every 100 travelling to Asia, picks Sri Lanka as their holiday destination.”

The forum was also informed on how Sri Lanka can capitalise in attracting German tourists via, the ayurvedic treatments, history, culture, exotic locations (beaches and mountains), culinary experience, wild life and bio-diversity.

Furthermore, the Ambassador emphasised that Sri Lanka should focus more on promotion and refined marketing strategies that will create demand and boost tourism.  The evening was followed by, a very stimulating Q&A session and subsequently followed by fellowship and refreshments.